Robin Williams (rest his soul) once said, “Comedy can be a cathartic way to deal with personal trauma.”
Some people second that notion with quotes like ‘happy people are truly the saddest people.’ I don’t necessarily equate my jovial personality to my frustrations (or depressing moments) but it makes sense to say that the happiest people I know and admire are usu- ally the ones who had the toughest lives – and most of them can truly make people laugh.
Case in point, and one of my favorite comediennes of all time: Pokwang. I’ve been seeing a lot of her lately in movies, TV shows and newspapers. Pokwang is one of the finest comedy performers of her generation. I know how hard she works as a single mother to her daughter Mae. Although we never had the chance to talk personally, it is my pleasure to write about the stories that lie behind this amazing woman.
A story about discovery
As most discovered talents, Pokwang did not expect anyone to take notice of her wit and banter on that fateful night at a comedy bar in Cubao. But she is grateful up to this day that comedian and “Your Face Sounds Familiar” contestant Eric Nicolas recognized her talent.
According to Nicolas, he discovered Pokwang when she came in as a guest at the said comedy bar. “Sa comedy bar kasi, comedian ako doon, pumasok sila [Pokwang] at gumimik sila as guests… Aba, pumanhik ito, nakainom na, nandoon din ‘yung mga may-ari tapos banter, banter, ayaw magpatalo. So bumaba ako, sabi ko, ‘Boss, okay ito wala tayong babae, pwede nating ipasok.’ Noong time na ‘yon, wala siyang (Pokwang) trabaho,” he said.
Nicolas was also the one who encouraged Pokwang to join ABS-CBN’s search for a new comedian, “Clown In A Million.” She won the contest, and the rest is history.
Success stories: past, present and future
Marietta Subong, or better known by her stage name Pokwang, was born August 27, 1970, in Iloilo City, Philippines. She is comedian, actress, TV host, singer, impersonator and salon co-owner.
In an interview, she recalls how she and her siblings had to watch TV by the window of their neighbor’s house because they didn’t have their own. She has come a long way from doing that to having her own TV – and actually watching herself on it.
“I still remember when I was a kid. Me and my sisters (sic) used to watch TV like this. And when my neighbor closes their windows, no more TV for us so we will go home and imagine what was the end of the show that we are currently watching. Ha-ha, now it is very different, I have my own TV inside my room. Thank you Lord! I feel so blessed!”
After winning in a reality talent show, Pokwang subsequently appeared in dramas and sitcoms. She also received a number of awards such as Best Comedy Actress award from the Philippine Movie Press Club for her portrayal in the sitcom “Aalog-Alog” and the Best Female Comedian award from People’s Choice Awards. She gained recognition as well as a movie actress and won Bert Marcelo Lifetime Achievement Award twice.
She was also nominated for Best female TV host (“Wowowee”), Best Comedy Actress (“That’s My Doc), 60th FAMAS Awards – Best Actress (“A Mother’s Story”) and Golden Screen TV Awards – Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Program.
She currently stars in the newest JaDine TV series as Agnes Nicolas, mother of Ali (played by newbie JC Santos and JaDine’s newest love triangle).
Pokwang’s career soars as her love life blossoms. She is currently in a very happy relationship with her American boyfriend of over a year. Looks like the future is looking good for this funny and charming lady.
A love told
Lee O’ Brien and Pokwang first met when they worked on the TFC movie “Edsa Woolworth,” which was released in January 2014. The two admitted they’re in a relationship in February.
In an interview on “Tonight with Boy Abunda,” Pokwang admitted that she is ready to tie the knot with O’Brien. The smitten man returned to the Philippines and decided to stay there for good – and of course, for the ‘love of his life.’
Such a funny and inspiring person this woman is. I had fun knowing and telling what is behind her innate ability to entertain and draw laughter in many ways. I hope that she continues to be as delightful as she has always been.
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Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, award-winning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration. To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at [email protected]
